Ingredient guide ›

Pentylene Glycol

The moisture helper.

What it does

Draws water into skin and helps keep products fresh by making it harder for germs to grow.

Good to know

Dermatologists have reported a few cases of skin allergy to it.

Often found in: Body lotions, Sunscreens, Shower gels

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• Allergic contact dermatitis to pentylene glycol in a cosmetic cream (Contact Dermatitis, 2008) (Medical)
• CIR: Safety Assessment of 1,2-Glycols as Used in Cosmetics (2012) (Industry-funded)